Study Abroad in Wales

March 7-16, 2014

THE COURSE:Wales is the British Isles' best-kept secret, tucked as it is on the edge of the island occupied and long-controlled by England. Unlike the other Celtic countries — Scotland and Ireland — Wales has maintained a Brythonic Celtic language spoken as the first language by about one-third of its people, a language of post-colonial resistance that has allowed it to maintain one of Europe's oldest literary traditions. The year 2014 marks the 100th birthday of Wales's most famous son — poet Dylan Thomas, the visionary who cries out to us, “Do Not Go Gentle into That Good Night.” To honor the occasion, this course will examine the history and culture of Wales as a context for reading the work of Dylan Thomas and other 20th- and 21st-century Welsh writers. We will study myths and folk tales, Welsh-language poetry, a radio play, fiction, and films.

THE TRIP: During spring break (March 7-16), we will travel to Wales for nine days (eight nights), where we will hear Welsh (but also English) spoken in the streets; go high in the mountains of Snowdonia; visit Conwy, Beaumaris, Cricieth, and Harlech castles; walk along dramatic seascapes; ride a tram deep into an historic slate mine; sleep in Prime Minister David Lloyd George's last home; explore Dylan Thomas's boathouse; meet famous Welsh poets, novelists, and travel writers; and hear live performances of popular music in Welsh.

WHO MAY TAKE THE COURSE AND TRIP:Students accepted into Catawba's Honors Program

COST OF TRIP:Approximately $2000 (because of a travel scholarship through the honors program); actual cost $2600-3000 (depending on number of students participating)